Ex-Chief Jack Kelly was born in Ireland in 1905 and grew up there until he was 23 years old.  He came to America in 1928 and started what would turn out to be a wonderful life.  He worked as a bricklayer in New York City until he found an interest in the Vigilant Fire Company in Great Neck and worked his way up to Chief.

He met his wife Ellen in 1932 and they were married in 1938.  They had six children, Mary, Lily, Jack, Mike, Tom and Ellen. Their mom passed away a short time after Ellen was born, but from what I’ve heard she was a very loving wife and mother. Things were tough for them, but Grandpa put in 200% to give all
of the kids the best life he could.

Grandpa saw a lot in his life, he was able to see his kids grow up and have families and some of his grandkids grow up and have families. He also got to
 see a lot of his great grandchildren too.

My grandpa was a wonderful and loving man.  He always had a smile on his face and strong grip on your hand. He was a fighter and he overcame a lot of obstacles in his life. He loved everyone so much and he always had something funny to say or he would just show you where the horse bit him.

Grandpa, I know you’re up there listening, we all love you and miss you very much but I know that you will always be watching over all of us.  You’re home now. 
Rest in Peace.

                                                Written by Christian Kelly

Jack Kelly was born on February 22, 1905 and joined the Vigilant Fire Company on September 11, 1942. He served as Captain from 1950-1953, First Assistant Chief from 1954 thru 1956 and was the Chief of Department in 1957.  Jack also served as trustee from 1960 thru 1963 and again from 1968 thru 1976 Jack had a total of 55 years of tenure with the Vigilant Fire Company when he passed at the age of 92.